Buffalo Chicken Totchos Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 (32 ounce) package frozen bite-size potato nuggets (such as Tater Tots)
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 teaspoons celery seed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• cup buffalo wing sauce
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• cup ranch dressing

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450F (230C).
2. Spread the frozen potato nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. While the potatoes bake, place the cubed chicken into a large bowl. Add the celery seed and olive oil. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides, about 15 minutes.
5. Once the chicken is browned, turn off the heat and add the buffalo wing sauce. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
6. Remove the potato nuggets from the oven. Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler on low.
7. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the baked potato nuggets, then top with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
8. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and drizzle the ranch dressing over the top.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Tip

Substitute blue cheese dressing for the ranch if desired for an extra kick of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	481
Total Fat	28g	36%
Saturated Fat	7g	35%
Cholesterol	81mg	27%
Sodium	1283mg	56%
Total Carbohydrate	32g	12%
Dietary Fiber	3g	10%
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	31g	61%
Vitamin C	1mg	2%
Calcium	128mg	10%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	512mg	11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Origin and History

The combination of tater tots and buffalo chicken is a modern American invention that reflects the evolving creativity in fusion cuisine. Buffalo wings, first created in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s, became an iconic dish in American culinary culture. The idea of combining these spicy, tangy wings with crispy tater totsbite-sized potato nuggetsemerged as a playful and delicious twist on traditional nachos. Buffalo Chicken Totchos combine the best elements of comfort food: the crispy texture of tater tots, the spicy heat of buffalo sauce, and the richness of melted cheese, creating an irresistible snack or appetizer.

Regional Features

Buffalo Chicken Totchos are a quintessential example of American comfort food, especially popular in the Midwest and along the East Coast, where both buffalo wings and tater tots are beloved. In Buffalo, New York, where the wings were invented, youll find many variations of buffalo-inspired dishes, but Totchos themselves are more of a nationwide phenomenon. Whether at home gatherings, sports bars, or tailgates, Totchos bring together the tangy heat of the famous Buffalo wing sauce and the crispy, golden crunch of tater tots, giving this dish an irresistible regional twist.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Buffalo Chicken Totchos stand apart from other nacho dishes by substituting tortilla chips with tater tots. This makes the dish heartier and adds a different textural element. While traditional nachos might use chips topped with cheese, salsa, and various proteins, Totchos elevate the comfort food experience with the potato base and the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and melted Monterey Jack cheese. This unique twist makes it a popular choice for those looking for a more indulgent, satisfying snack or meal. Moreover, unlike typical nachos, which can be light and crispy, Totchos have a heartier, more substantial base, thanks to the dense, crispy tater tots.

Where It's Typically Served

Buffalo Chicken Totchos are a popular choice at casual eateries, sports bars, and at home during game days or social gatherings. Their appeal lies in their easy preparation and the ability to feed a crowd with minimal effort. Youll find them on menus in establishments that serve comfort food and American-style pub fare, as well as at tailgating parties for football games, where the blend of cheese, spicy chicken, and crispy potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser. They can also be made as a fun weeknight meal or appetizer when you want to impress your guests with something flavorful and easy to prepare.

Interesting Facts About Buffalo Chicken Totchos

• While Totchos are a relatively recent innovation, theyve quickly become a favorite comfort food, appearing in variations across the country.
• The addition of ranch or blue cheese dressing as a topping is essential for cooling down the heat from the buffalo sauce, adding an extra layer of creamy richness.
• The combination of tater tots and buffalo chicken not only satisfies a variety of taste preferences but also appeals to both children and adults, making it a versatile dish.
• If you're in a hurry, substituting rotisserie chicken for cooking raw chicken is a great time-saver, while still providing the same great flavor.

FAQ about Buffalo Chicken Totchos Recipe

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